Cu MOF-based electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction to multi-carbon products

The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) shows great promise in realizing a carbon-neutral cycle by converting CO2 into value-added chemicals and fuels, especially multi-carbon products (C2+) with higher energy density. Cu metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives with high chemistry tunability, large surface area, and unique pore structures have been explored as potential catalysts for the CO2RR to C2+ products. Herein, recent progress of Cu MOF-based electrocatalysts for electrocatalytic CO2 to C2+ products is summarized. First, electrolyzer types, performance evaluation parameters, and the reaction mechanism of the CO2RR to C2+ products are briefly provided. Then, the three types of Cu MOF-based catalysts (Cu-based MOFs, Cu-based MOF composites, and Cu-based MOF derivatives) are discussed in detail, emphasizing electrocatalytic performance enhancement strategies and mechanisms. Finally, we highlight the critical challenges and potential opportunities for designing highly efficient MOF-based catalysts to convert CO2 to C2+ products.